The original ChatGPT companion robot, an IoT “smart belt,” assists in managing AI-powered vacuums, brooms, and other gadgets.
At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show, the focus is not unexpectedly on AI following a year dominated by artificial intelligence in the technology industry.
In Las Vegas this week, Les 2024, in its 58th iteration, will showcase a mix of cutting-edge systems and unconventional tools.
Known as the premier consumer tech event of the year, Les features computers prowling the stage, flashy presentations from major tech firms, and the unveiling of unique products like the $3,000 self-driving stroller and color-changing cars from the previous year.
Beyond the glitz, the event fosters business interactions among industry leaders, paving the way for significant technology trends and outlining business strategies for the year ahead.
Dipanjan Chatterjee, a principal analyst at Forrester, poses the question, “What AI won’t touch this year?” The pervasive influence of ChatGPT has accelerated companies’ rush into the realm of artificial intelligence, despite uncertainties about its future trajectory.
Chatterjee anticipates AI integration across various consumer electronics, from Samsung refrigerators to Intel and Nvidia processors. Panel discussions will delve into AI’s impact on work dynamics and ethical considerations.
In response to concerns about the Omicron variant, the Consumer Technology Association expects over 130,000 in-person attendees this year, up from 115,000 last year and 45,000 in 2022. Virtual options will also be available for select activities.
With over 4,000 attendees and 1,200 businesses from around the world, Les will feature industry professionals from companies like Samsung, LG, and Microsoft. Notable speakers include Walmart CEO Doug McMillon and Snap co-founder and CEO Evan Spiegel. Apple’s participation, although unlikely, remains uncertain.
The event is poised to host representatives from about 60% of the Fortune 500 companies, facilitating product launches and discussions across various technology sectors. L’Oreal CEO Nicolas Hieronimus will present the company’s inaugural Les showcase, emphasizing beauty as a prominent product category.
The automobile exhibition at Les continues to see rapid growth, featuring a diverse range of transportation modes, from floating and rolling to flying.
In addition to AI, this year’s spotlight will shine on portable displays, next-gen wearables, and mixed reality accessories. Use cases for AR and VR extend beyond gaming to encompass multimedia consumption, education, and collaboration.
New innovations in portable devices, such as the Dusk Rx prescription-ready eyewear system and high-tech athletic performance-enhancing pants, will be on display. Voice assistants and smart speakers, powered by generative AI like ChatGPT, are expected to evolve, potentially enhancing user interactions.
CES serves as a vital indicator of market trends, although the sheer volume of products on display poses challenges for breakthrough innovations. Stuart Carlaw of ABI Research likens navigating CES to understanding an elephant blindfolded, emphasizing the pervasive influence of AI across tech companies.
Les runs through Friday, January 12.
